Hey everyone! I was doing a little maint. on my new used 2000 explorer 400. I was checking the main jet size and needle position. I then put everything back together and it would not idle. I found that the threaded part of the throttle cable on the top of the carb was loose so I played with it some and got it to run fine again. My question is should this threaded portion be screwed tight to the carb? It seems to me like the previous owner was using this as the adjustment instead of changing the needle position? What do you think?

Thanks
Kris

 

This adjustment is used to set the throttle cable free play. Turn it in too far and the ETC will kill the ignition system. Set it out too far and you will not be able to adjust the idle speed down. Proper free play is 1/8".

 

you dont change the needle position to change the idle

 

Thanks guys, I realize you don't adjust the idle with the needle instead of the idle screw on the side. I was just playing around with the needle adjustment since the temps have dropped off. Does anyone know what the needle position should be at 5000ft with a 175 main jet in it?